boiler
- 01 B1 Intermediate
a machine that heats water to provide heat and hot water for a house or building.
a domestic or industrial device used to heat water or produce steam, typically for central heating or hot water supply.
Simple“The house was freezing because the boiler broke down during the night.”
In context“The landlord agreed to replace the aging gas boiler with a more energy-efficient model before the winter temperatures arrived.”
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
a large pot or container used for boiling or steaming food.
a large vessel or container designed for boiling, steaming, or heating food items in bulk.
Simple“We used a large boiler to cook enough corn for the whole party.”
In context“The industrial kitchen was equipped with several stainless steel boilers for preparing large quantities of soup and stock.”
- 03 C2 Proficiency
a very rude and old-fashioned way to describe an older woman you think is unattractive.
a derogatory and offensive slang term used to describe an older woman, often implying she is unattractive or unpleasant.
Simple“He was being very rude and called the neighbour an old boiler.”
In context“The comedian's use of the term 'old boiler' was widely criticised for being both sexist and outdated.”
Teacher's tipThis term is considered highly offensive and sexist in modern British English; learners should recognize it but never use it.
Synonymshagcrone
From boil + -er.
Shortening of boilerplate
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.